Galen crept up to Virdon, in vigil over Burke as he slept.
The day after they'd escaped the trio had hidden the wagon back into the trees, far away from the dirt road. They'd put Burke on horseback and lead the horse deep into the woods. Virdon kept watch over Burke that day, fighting his own exhaustion, and Galen slept in preparation for his work of the coming evening. As full darkness descended, the chimpanzee struck out on the road with horse and wagon, moonlight his only guide. He rode all night, heading east, ears and eyes straining for signs of approaching soldiers. As the sun made its first appearance, Galen drove the wagon off the road and set the horse free. He gave his gentle companion a final good- bye pat on the head.
Since then, he'd traveled all day and hours into the following night to get back to his friends. Finally he admitted to himself that they'd spend another night without him - he'd never find them in the darkness of the forest. Worse yet, he'd likely get lost. He lay down within shouting distance of the road and was asleep within minutes. Shortly after daybreak, the voices of gorillas awakened him. A search party. Galen's fear at the sound of those voices was nearly as great as his exhaustion. He lay with bated breath, fearing to move until the soldiers moved on. Finally he got up and crept cautiously into the deep woods. Some time later, he drew within sight of his friends. Burke was asleep. Alan sat upright, head nodding drowsily.
"Alan, it's me," Galen whispered, grasping his friend's shoulder.
Alan jerked awake. He blinked at his friend and smiled. "Galen, you made it! Did you get rid of the wagon?"
"It's far enough away to be safe. I hope. Is everything all right?" asked Galen.
Alan nodded, yawning. "I was almost asleep. Have to be more careful."
"I think you can relax a bit, here." Galen trailed off, fighting to keep a smile off his face. Almost asleep, indeed.
Alan fished in his pocket. "Did you know we got this back?" he asked, and held up the metallic disk.
"Oh, Alan, I'm so glad. But how."
Alan nodded towards Burke. "He went after it. At Urko's house. We were both there." Alan grinned at Galen's wide-eyed look.
"To think that I go along with your schemes - both of you are insane! Have you no common sense at all?"
"Don't look at me. I just followed him. Question the nut over there when he wakes up." Alan's face turned serious. "It's time we cleared the air, anyway."
Galen sighed. "Clear the air?"
"I mean we need to talk."
Galen nodded, thoughtfully. "We have a lot to. clear. All of us." He paused a moment, then nodded at Burke. "How is he?"
"Head injuries are tricky - it can take awhile for the full effects of the injury to manifest. His head hurts, of course. He's unreasonable - complaining, naturally. Makes a bad patient. what are you smiling at?" said Alan curiously.
"Because he's well enough to behave like. well, like Burke. He's going to be okay, isn't he?"
Alan smiled back. "He needs more time to heal, but. yeah. Yeah, Galen. I think he is."
------------------------------
Burke squinted and looked up at Galen's back, trudging before him. "Now tell me again why we're doing this? Not enough risk-taking to make you happy lately, is that it?"
Galen snorted and threw a quick look over his shoulder. "I really don't think you of all people should be asking me that."
Alan murmured, "I think he's lost his nerve, Galen." He shot a mischievous glance towards Burke.
Burke huffed. "Who says I ever had any to begin with? Quiet and relaxation, that's all I want. Lying back, with a gorgeous girl to feed me grapes. Fan me when it's hot."
Galen rolled his eyes. "We must make sure Pergis is all right. And you owe me. Both of you." As an ape stepped up alongside them on the dusty street, Galen snapped crossly at them, "Come now, we don't have all day!"
"Owe him. We owe him now," grumbled Burke, after the ape had passed. "Just who the hell got you out of jail?"
"Alan, I believe. Thank you very much for your help, Alan. Just in case I forgot to thank you before," Galen replied.
The three quieted, turning onto the street where Galen's parents lived. The chimpanzee halted briefly, looking up and down the street for gorillas. He saw none. Galen led them quickly to the house, heart pounding. Behind him the astronauts looked up and down the street, alert for signs of trouble, then tucked their heads back down towards the ground in a token show of servility. Their steps whispered through the dry grass as Galen led them to the garden door in back of the home and knocked, heart pounding. His neck prickled, waiting for someone to answer, praying they'd come quickly. He hated standing there with his back to the great outdoors. He shook his head, thinking. Another insane risk, and this time at his instigation. He was as bad as the two astronauts.
It was early evening, and the sun lay low in the sky, casting strong light and shadows. Almost a month had passed since their escape from Urko's clutches. Immediately afterwards, they'd stayed in the woods for as long as they dared, weighing Burke's need for recovery against the dangers of staying so near to Central City. Finally, a scarcity of food forced them to move on.
The trio's relief in simply being alive and together was palpable, and so far Virdon had been willing to let things go. His determination had not waned - they would talk, and soon - but he'd decided to give Burke and Galen some time before forcing the issue.
Galen's mother answered the door, delight at seeing her son warring with concern on her face. Quickly she stepped aside, and they blinked as they walked indoors, eyes adjusting to the comparatively dim interior of the airy home. Yalu stood, surprised at their sudden arrival. Ann embraced Galen and greeted the humans warmly.
"Galen," said his father quietly. "I'm glad to see you've recovered. Although I question your judgment, coming back so soon."
Galen sighed. "So do I, Father. so do I." He moved closer to Yalu and smiled. "Aren't you happy to see me?"
Yalu blinked as Galen tapped his father's chest affectionately, and his arm reached out to encircle his son's shoulders. Ann looked upon the two fondly as the astronauts glanced casually away, trying not to smile.
"Now, please tell me that Pergis is safe," said Galen, eyes searching his father's.
"Pergis and his friends are keeping very quiet. but he's fine. They all are. Apparently you left some injuries behind you?" The two astronauts exchanged glances. "There was a young chimp named Gathor who was hospitalized for several days.. But he's recovered quite well, according to Pergis." Yalu stared at his son. "Your cousin comes to visit, but has little to say ever since Urko's confession at Council Hall."
"Confession?" Galen prompted.
"Apparently a young chimp named Malachi killed the gorilla guard. this Malachi appeared to have some sort of a grudge against the general." Yalu's eyes searched his son's, and Galen turned away, hiding his surprise. Behind him, Burke stiffened. He'd been ready to expect anything at their arrival, and was relieved at the welcome he'd gotten. Now this.
Galen turned to his friends. "Why would Urko." he began.
Alan's eyes widened. "Zaius and Pergis. They must have come to an agreement."
"Can you imagine Urko being forced to take part ." Galen's smile faded. "uh-oh...Urko was forced to take part in Burke's defense."
Ann turned puzzled eyes to Burke, dark eyes probing his. "Your defense?"
Burke looked trapped. Galen opened his mouth, but Burke waved a hand, motioning him quiet. He put his hand up to his mouth, thinking. "There are." Burke started, then sighed. "There are. look, Pergis didn't tell you everything, obviously."
Ann smoothed her shirt, then turned her eyes to Burke's again. "What is it?" she asked.
Burke ran a hand through his hair, agitated. "I did it."
Yalu looked confused. "Did what? Malachi killed the soldier. didn't he?" His gruff voice resounded through the room.
"Malachi had a grudge against Urko. He tried to kill him... not the gorilla." Everyone froze as the door to the garden suddenly opened. It was Pergis. His face was still a moment as he surveyed the room, then smiled delightedly.
Thank the gods it's you," Ann sighed, pressing a hand to her chest again. "Lock the door, please," she said, motioning to Pergis.
"Pergis, you're all right!" Galen said happily, throwing his mother a look at the same time. He couldn't believe the door had been unlocked. The cousins embraced while Yalu glared at Burke, refusing to be diverted.
Yalu stood up slowly. "Get out of my house. Now." Ann put a hand on his shoulder. He shook her off, advancing upon Burke. "I said now." Burke's face was a mixture of misery and anger. He nodded nearly imperceptibly and took a step towards the door. Pergis placed a staying hand on his shoulder and Burke looked at him, questioning.
"It was self-defense, Uncle Yalu. The soldier hunted him down. And I'm convinced Malachi led the gorilla to Burke in the first place," said Pergis.
Burke looked at Pergis, surprised. Pergis nodded. "My friends and I were looking for you and Alan. Malachi was with me, and then suddenly he was gone. I was maybe a block away from Market Square when I spotted him again. He wasn't talking to anyone, but the soldier was right behind him. Portis went directly to you." Burke looked at him grimly. "He wanted you caught, Pete. He wanted me to see what happened to you. So I and the others would act against Urko. The fact that you got away was unexpected, to say the least."
"I said OUT!" said Yalu, voice raised. He advanced upon Burke with arm out- stretched. Burke looked at him without expression. Ann's face was solemn, standing next to her husband. She turned away from the astronaut. Burke swallowed and turned to the door again.
Galen caught up to him an instant before he walked out, Alan on his heels. "Wait. please," and he put a restraining arm on Burke's.
"I can't stay - aren't you listening!" Burke said, frustrated.
"I have something to say to all of you," said Galen in measured tones, and turned to his parents.
"After what he's done, you bring this ape-killer into my home!" exclaimed Yalu, gray-streaked ruff quivering with emotion.
"Let him speak."
Galen looked towards Ann's quiet voice. Yalu opened his mouth, then shut it.
"I told him," Galen said, nodding to Burke, "that there's always another choice. Always. If that's true, then the same holds true for me."
"What is this nonsense!" Yalu exclaimed.
"Father, I killed a gorilla. Have you forgotten when I first became a fugitive? All I wanted was to stop Urko's plan to kill Alan and Pete. Because it was wrong. But someone ended up dying anyway. What happened to Pete was wrong, too. And he had to make a choice. As hard as it is for me to say, I can't be sorry he made that choice, because he wouldn't be here if he hadn't."
Burke stared wordlessly at Galen.
Pergis spoke up. "Pete got into the situation trying to save Galen." Pergis's sober gray eyes met Burke's, level with his own. "You did nothing wrong. I believe that. As would they, if they'd witnessed what happened." Burke's eyes dropped from his.
"Perhaps the words of the Lawgiver are true.." Pergis mused. Alan threw him a surprised look, and Pergis held up a hand. "What I mean is. the Lawgiver warned us of the nature of man, of the violence inherent to him. But he failed to warn us about ourselves.. We are no better. We cannot afford to think we are."
Alan spoke. "Sometimes they're hard to find. but we've met many good individuals. human and ape."
There was silence. Yalu looked at the astronauts for a long moment, then Pergis, and finally Galen. His face was stern as he drew close to his son. "I won't say that I can accept this, because I can't. But I won't turn my back on you," he said, simply.
Pergis nodded, satisfied, and turned to leave through the garden doorway, thinking he'd done all he could. Now it was up to Galen, his friends and his parents. Galen grabbed his hand and Pergis looked back. "I don't know if it makes a difference, Pergis. but I'm proud of you."
"It matters, Galen. Always," said Pergis, squeezing his cousin's hand.
Burke looked at Pergis. "It's funny. You of all people--" he started, and shook his head. "..of all apes, never doubted me, what I did.. " He trailed off.
Pergis looked at Burke, studying him. "Can't you just accept it, then?"
"Pergis has always been an ape of conviction," Galen said. Burke nodded, bemused.
Alan shook hands with Pergis. "We won't forget what you've done for us."
Pergis looked amused, then turned sober. "I think you need all the help you can get. Urko will never rest until he finds you after this."
Alan nodded and turned to Galen. "We've found out what we came for. You ready?"
Galen turned to look at his parents, then back at Alan, who sighed, realizing it wasn't over yet.
Ann spoke hurriedly. "You're already here. Aren't you hungry?" Burke looked up, alarmed. He wanted nothing more than to be out of this house and away from the city. Ann hesitated, then stepped closer to him, huffing impatiently as he continued to avoid her gaze. She tapped his arm gently with her fingers. He responded to her touch, looking stiffly at her, seeing her confusion over his actions and what it meant to her. And something else. the willingness to push that confusion aside. For her son's sake - and maybe even for his.
He smiled awkwardly down at her for an instant. It was enough. She tapped his arm again one last time and wrinkled her nose.
The trio looked at each other and came to agreement, nodding. They trooped behind Ann into the kitchen.
--------------------------------
Early the next morning the trio left Central City, tracing their path of a month before. They did their best to appear as unobtrusive as possible, and moved through the city without incident. Relief at safely reaching the outer limits of the city lightened their steps as they continued traveling, reaching the forested area where they'd previously camped an hour before dusk. The three made their way through trees and bushes to a familiar clearing and collapsed on the ground with grateful sighs.
Burke rummaged in his backpack and pulled out the bread and fruit that Ann had packed inside. He chewed, tasting little, and swigged from his canteen. Glancing sideways at Galen seated next to him in the fading light, he wiped his mouth with his arm. The chimpanzee seemed lost in thought, and Burke waved a hand in front of his face. Galen started and turned to Burke inquiringly. "Listen." Burke said, clearing his throat. "What you said back there at your parent's house. I, ah. appreciate it." He glanced away, picking a blade of grass from the ground. Suddenly the sounds of the forest were very loud to his ears.
Galen nodded, eyes thoughtful. He smiled slightly. "It was the truth."
"I think its time for us to talk about some things," Alan said quietly, sitting up from his reclining position on the ground.
Burke glanced at him uncomfortably. "Al.."
Alan held up his hand. "I mean it, Pete. It's past time we dealt with what happened. Things got way out of hand."
Burke heaved himself up. He paced restlessly around the small clearing before stopping, hands on his hips, staring at the ground. His two friends watched in silence as he looked up. "What's the point of this?" He squinted at the sun, sinking below the line of trees closest to him in the clearing.
Alan stood and faced Pete. "The point?" he repeated.
"Yeah. What good is it gonna do?" He switched his gaze to Alan.
"We can't afford to keep secrets from each other. It almost got you killed, Pete," said Galen, looking up.
"What secrets?" Burke asked impatiently.
"Come on, Pete. You haven't dealt with what happened at Chandar, or anything else. It's coming back to haunt you - and us," Alan said, eyes trained on friend's.
"So the purpose of this little heart-to-heart is so I'll confess my sins - is that it?" Pete's voice was even, but with an edge.
"By all rights, you should be dead now after what you did back there last month. You were out of control all the way," Alan said vehemently. He sighed, trying to retain his calm. "It's bad enough we have to fight off so many threats from the outside. It's almost impossible if we have to worry about what stunt you're gonna pull next."
"Look, I screwed up," Pete said, voice raised. "Don't act like you wouldn't have went after that flight disk if I hadn't, Alan."
Alan stared at Pete and said, slowly, "Yeah. Yeah, you're right. I would have tried to get it back." He paused, staring off into the trees, rubbing his chin. The fading light glowed orange. "You know, when I saw you pointing that gun at Urko, trying to keep from falling flat on your face. I was thinking, how much of this is my fault?" He looked at his two friends. "I won't lie, that flight disk still means a lot to me. but it's not worth your life. Our lives. I hope I never see anything like that again," he said, eyes on Burke.
"I got it back. That's the end of it." Burke said flatly.
Galen snorted. "Oh no you don't. We deserve more than that," he said, returning Pete's glare with a measured look. "Stop looking at me that way and listen! We're trying to help, whether you appreciate that or not."
"Maybe it bothers me that I left the disk behind in the first place, okay? Yeah, I got it back. Not quite as easy to make things right for Kabon and Liska, though. Not to mention the village." Burke uttered a strangled laugh. "It's been one royal fuck up after another, lately, courtesy of yours truly, hasn't it? I don't know, Galen, maybe I figure you're getting tired of having to pick up the pieces. Isn't that right, Alan? I know I'd be tired of it."
"NO!" Alan exclaimed. "But the fact that you think you are single- handedly responsible for all that's happened does bother me. Same as you thinking you can just single-handedly make things right does."
"We've got to deal with this together, Pete," said Galen.
Burke looked at them a moment, rubbing the back of his neck. He looked downward. "Then I get into that standoff with the gorilla..."
"You got into it trying to help me," Galen interjected quickly.
Burke looked towards the chimpanzee. "One step is all it takes, Galen. Did you know that? One step.one moment, one second, puts you over the line. I don't know how to deal with it - or with Chandar, okay?" he burst out, sounding frustrated and uncertain. "It's what I've been trying to do for weeks, and it hasn't worked." He raked his hand restlessly through his hair.
"Maybe it was just one step. the last one. It took a lot of pushing to get you to that point," said Galen. He tapped his fingers together, watching his friend. The gloom in the clearing deepened.
"I looked at that gorilla. I couldn't fight him, I knew he'd win. I remembered Liska, and Kabon, and all the other humans that have been beaten down, or killed, and I just. had enough. Was I supposed to roll over and quit? After everything?" said Burke hesitantly, searching Galen's eyes. Galen shook his head wordlessly.
Alan put a comforting hand on his friend's shoulder, seeing his misery and self-doubt. "It's easy to think you'd never take another life, Pete - easier to think in black and white, in absolutes... if you're lucky, you're never faced with a situation to challenge that conviction."
"You know as well as I that absolutes are tricky. It seems to be something I keep learning over and over," said Galen, smiling a little.
"Stop defending me! I was glad when I pulled that trigger - you need to understand that, if nothing else," Pete said, suddenly angry. He waved his hand at them dismissively and turned away.
"I understand. I understand you very well. Enough of this, Pete!" Galen said loudly, advancing on Burke. "If it's vengeance you still need, why are you looking for forgiveness?" He grabbed Pete's arm and gave it a shake for emphasis.
Startled, Pete raised his brow and looked at the chimpanzee. "Who said I'm looking for forgiveness?" he yelled.
"Oh, please," was Galen's reply.
"We've made our peace with what's happened. You'll have to look to yourself for absolution," said Virdon. Burke stared at him wordlessly. "And you better find it soon. We're getting tired of this crap," added Virdon. His blue eyes crinkled at the corners.
"Yeah, well.. that's asking a lot," said Burke, anger gone. He eyed the two of his friends and rubbed his forehead wearily.
Alan sobered, struck by the vulnerability on his face. "Try. Okay?"
"I'm not the same, anymore," Burke said simply.
"Then be what you are," Galen replied, gazing at him.
Burke looked back a moment. "I thought that was the problem."
"I dare say that won't change anytime soon," Galen said dryly, patting Pete's arm. He rolled his eyes at Virdon.
"Can you just let go of my arm now?" asked Burke pointedly. He sat down with a thump.
Alan looked back and forth at the two of them for a moment. Absently he felt for the disk in his pocket - a habit he'd acquired since getting it back. A startled look crossed his face.
"Alan." said Burke, warning.
Virdon looked at him, stricken. "It's gone."
"What do you mean, gone!" Galen exclaimed, agitated.
Burke looked up at Alan, anxiety belying his even tone. "Oh no, uh-uh. This better be a joke." He and Galen stared at the blond astronaut. He returned their gaze with a blank look.
"If it is, I really don't see the humor," added Galen sternly. There was a long silence. "It's a very bad joke."
Alan grinned and pulled the disk out of his pocket. "Busted."
Burke frowned at Alan, then sighed. "The king of comedy you ain't." He scratched his finger idly in the dirt.
Galen glared. "I don't think it's funny at all."
"I'm sorry," said Alan, trying to look repentant, and failing miserably. He sat down beside Burke. He smacked the back of Alan's head lightly, and a smothered laugh escaped the blond astronaut. Burke shook his head at Virdon and chuckled at Galen's outraged expression.
Galen put his hands on his hips, staring at the two. His nose twitched. "Hmmph," he said, and turned away as the two began to laugh out loud.
The day after they'd escaped the trio had hidden the wagon back into the trees, far away from the dirt road. They'd put Burke on horseback and lead the horse deep into the woods. Virdon kept watch over Burke that day, fighting his own exhaustion, and Galen slept in preparation for his work of the coming evening. As full darkness descended, the chimpanzee struck out on the road with horse and wagon, moonlight his only guide. He rode all night, heading east, ears and eyes straining for signs of approaching soldiers. As the sun made its first appearance, Galen drove the wagon off the road and set the horse free. He gave his gentle companion a final good- bye pat on the head.
Since then, he'd traveled all day and hours into the following night to get back to his friends. Finally he admitted to himself that they'd spend another night without him - he'd never find them in the darkness of the forest. Worse yet, he'd likely get lost. He lay down within shouting distance of the road and was asleep within minutes. Shortly after daybreak, the voices of gorillas awakened him. A search party. Galen's fear at the sound of those voices was nearly as great as his exhaustion. He lay with bated breath, fearing to move until the soldiers moved on. Finally he got up and crept cautiously into the deep woods. Some time later, he drew within sight of his friends. Burke was asleep. Alan sat upright, head nodding drowsily.
"Alan, it's me," Galen whispered, grasping his friend's shoulder.
Alan jerked awake. He blinked at his friend and smiled. "Galen, you made it! Did you get rid of the wagon?"
"It's far enough away to be safe. I hope. Is everything all right?" asked Galen.
Alan nodded, yawning. "I was almost asleep. Have to be more careful."
"I think you can relax a bit, here." Galen trailed off, fighting to keep a smile off his face. Almost asleep, indeed.
Alan fished in his pocket. "Did you know we got this back?" he asked, and held up the metallic disk.
"Oh, Alan, I'm so glad. But how."
Alan nodded towards Burke. "He went after it. At Urko's house. We were both there." Alan grinned at Galen's wide-eyed look.
"To think that I go along with your schemes - both of you are insane! Have you no common sense at all?"
"Don't look at me. I just followed him. Question the nut over there when he wakes up." Alan's face turned serious. "It's time we cleared the air, anyway."
Galen sighed. "Clear the air?"
"I mean we need to talk."
Galen nodded, thoughtfully. "We have a lot to. clear. All of us." He paused a moment, then nodded at Burke. "How is he?"
"Head injuries are tricky - it can take awhile for the full effects of the injury to manifest. His head hurts, of course. He's unreasonable - complaining, naturally. Makes a bad patient. what are you smiling at?" said Alan curiously.
"Because he's well enough to behave like. well, like Burke. He's going to be okay, isn't he?"
Alan smiled back. "He needs more time to heal, but. yeah. Yeah, Galen. I think he is."
------------------------------
Burke squinted and looked up at Galen's back, trudging before him. "Now tell me again why we're doing this? Not enough risk-taking to make you happy lately, is that it?"
Galen snorted and threw a quick look over his shoulder. "I really don't think you of all people should be asking me that."
Alan murmured, "I think he's lost his nerve, Galen." He shot a mischievous glance towards Burke.
Burke huffed. "Who says I ever had any to begin with? Quiet and relaxation, that's all I want. Lying back, with a gorgeous girl to feed me grapes. Fan me when it's hot."
Galen rolled his eyes. "We must make sure Pergis is all right. And you owe me. Both of you." As an ape stepped up alongside them on the dusty street, Galen snapped crossly at them, "Come now, we don't have all day!"
"Owe him. We owe him now," grumbled Burke, after the ape had passed. "Just who the hell got you out of jail?"
"Alan, I believe. Thank you very much for your help, Alan. Just in case I forgot to thank you before," Galen replied.
The three quieted, turning onto the street where Galen's parents lived. The chimpanzee halted briefly, looking up and down the street for gorillas. He saw none. Galen led them quickly to the house, heart pounding. Behind him the astronauts looked up and down the street, alert for signs of trouble, then tucked their heads back down towards the ground in a token show of servility. Their steps whispered through the dry grass as Galen led them to the garden door in back of the home and knocked, heart pounding. His neck prickled, waiting for someone to answer, praying they'd come quickly. He hated standing there with his back to the great outdoors. He shook his head, thinking. Another insane risk, and this time at his instigation. He was as bad as the two astronauts.
It was early evening, and the sun lay low in the sky, casting strong light and shadows. Almost a month had passed since their escape from Urko's clutches. Immediately afterwards, they'd stayed in the woods for as long as they dared, weighing Burke's need for recovery against the dangers of staying so near to Central City. Finally, a scarcity of food forced them to move on.
The trio's relief in simply being alive and together was palpable, and so far Virdon had been willing to let things go. His determination had not waned - they would talk, and soon - but he'd decided to give Burke and Galen some time before forcing the issue.
Galen's mother answered the door, delight at seeing her son warring with concern on her face. Quickly she stepped aside, and they blinked as they walked indoors, eyes adjusting to the comparatively dim interior of the airy home. Yalu stood, surprised at their sudden arrival. Ann embraced Galen and greeted the humans warmly.
"Galen," said his father quietly. "I'm glad to see you've recovered. Although I question your judgment, coming back so soon."
Galen sighed. "So do I, Father. so do I." He moved closer to Yalu and smiled. "Aren't you happy to see me?"
Yalu blinked as Galen tapped his father's chest affectionately, and his arm reached out to encircle his son's shoulders. Ann looked upon the two fondly as the astronauts glanced casually away, trying not to smile.
"Now, please tell me that Pergis is safe," said Galen, eyes searching his father's.
"Pergis and his friends are keeping very quiet. but he's fine. They all are. Apparently you left some injuries behind you?" The two astronauts exchanged glances. "There was a young chimp named Gathor who was hospitalized for several days.. But he's recovered quite well, according to Pergis." Yalu stared at his son. "Your cousin comes to visit, but has little to say ever since Urko's confession at Council Hall."
"Confession?" Galen prompted.
"Apparently a young chimp named Malachi killed the gorilla guard. this Malachi appeared to have some sort of a grudge against the general." Yalu's eyes searched his son's, and Galen turned away, hiding his surprise. Behind him, Burke stiffened. He'd been ready to expect anything at their arrival, and was relieved at the welcome he'd gotten. Now this.
Galen turned to his friends. "Why would Urko." he began.
Alan's eyes widened. "Zaius and Pergis. They must have come to an agreement."
"Can you imagine Urko being forced to take part ." Galen's smile faded. "uh-oh...Urko was forced to take part in Burke's defense."
Ann turned puzzled eyes to Burke, dark eyes probing his. "Your defense?"
Burke looked trapped. Galen opened his mouth, but Burke waved a hand, motioning him quiet. He put his hand up to his mouth, thinking. "There are." Burke started, then sighed. "There are. look, Pergis didn't tell you everything, obviously."
Ann smoothed her shirt, then turned her eyes to Burke's again. "What is it?" she asked.
Burke ran a hand through his hair, agitated. "I did it."
Yalu looked confused. "Did what? Malachi killed the soldier. didn't he?" His gruff voice resounded through the room.
"Malachi had a grudge against Urko. He tried to kill him... not the gorilla." Everyone froze as the door to the garden suddenly opened. It was Pergis. His face was still a moment as he surveyed the room, then smiled delightedly.
Thank the gods it's you," Ann sighed, pressing a hand to her chest again. "Lock the door, please," she said, motioning to Pergis.
"Pergis, you're all right!" Galen said happily, throwing his mother a look at the same time. He couldn't believe the door had been unlocked. The cousins embraced while Yalu glared at Burke, refusing to be diverted.
Yalu stood up slowly. "Get out of my house. Now." Ann put a hand on his shoulder. He shook her off, advancing upon Burke. "I said now." Burke's face was a mixture of misery and anger. He nodded nearly imperceptibly and took a step towards the door. Pergis placed a staying hand on his shoulder and Burke looked at him, questioning.
"It was self-defense, Uncle Yalu. The soldier hunted him down. And I'm convinced Malachi led the gorilla to Burke in the first place," said Pergis.
Burke looked at Pergis, surprised. Pergis nodded. "My friends and I were looking for you and Alan. Malachi was with me, and then suddenly he was gone. I was maybe a block away from Market Square when I spotted him again. He wasn't talking to anyone, but the soldier was right behind him. Portis went directly to you." Burke looked at him grimly. "He wanted you caught, Pete. He wanted me to see what happened to you. So I and the others would act against Urko. The fact that you got away was unexpected, to say the least."
"I said OUT!" said Yalu, voice raised. He advanced upon Burke with arm out- stretched. Burke looked at him without expression. Ann's face was solemn, standing next to her husband. She turned away from the astronaut. Burke swallowed and turned to the door again.
Galen caught up to him an instant before he walked out, Alan on his heels. "Wait. please," and he put a restraining arm on Burke's.
"I can't stay - aren't you listening!" Burke said, frustrated.
"I have something to say to all of you," said Galen in measured tones, and turned to his parents.
"After what he's done, you bring this ape-killer into my home!" exclaimed Yalu, gray-streaked ruff quivering with emotion.
"Let him speak."
Galen looked towards Ann's quiet voice. Yalu opened his mouth, then shut it.
"I told him," Galen said, nodding to Burke, "that there's always another choice. Always. If that's true, then the same holds true for me."
"What is this nonsense!" Yalu exclaimed.
"Father, I killed a gorilla. Have you forgotten when I first became a fugitive? All I wanted was to stop Urko's plan to kill Alan and Pete. Because it was wrong. But someone ended up dying anyway. What happened to Pete was wrong, too. And he had to make a choice. As hard as it is for me to say, I can't be sorry he made that choice, because he wouldn't be here if he hadn't."
Burke stared wordlessly at Galen.
Pergis spoke up. "Pete got into the situation trying to save Galen." Pergis's sober gray eyes met Burke's, level with his own. "You did nothing wrong. I believe that. As would they, if they'd witnessed what happened." Burke's eyes dropped from his.
"Perhaps the words of the Lawgiver are true.." Pergis mused. Alan threw him a surprised look, and Pergis held up a hand. "What I mean is. the Lawgiver warned us of the nature of man, of the violence inherent to him. But he failed to warn us about ourselves.. We are no better. We cannot afford to think we are."
Alan spoke. "Sometimes they're hard to find. but we've met many good individuals. human and ape."
There was silence. Yalu looked at the astronauts for a long moment, then Pergis, and finally Galen. His face was stern as he drew close to his son. "I won't say that I can accept this, because I can't. But I won't turn my back on you," he said, simply.
Pergis nodded, satisfied, and turned to leave through the garden doorway, thinking he'd done all he could. Now it was up to Galen, his friends and his parents. Galen grabbed his hand and Pergis looked back. "I don't know if it makes a difference, Pergis. but I'm proud of you."
"It matters, Galen. Always," said Pergis, squeezing his cousin's hand.
Burke looked at Pergis. "It's funny. You of all people--" he started, and shook his head. "..of all apes, never doubted me, what I did.. " He trailed off.
Pergis looked at Burke, studying him. "Can't you just accept it, then?"
"Pergis has always been an ape of conviction," Galen said. Burke nodded, bemused.
Alan shook hands with Pergis. "We won't forget what you've done for us."
Pergis looked amused, then turned sober. "I think you need all the help you can get. Urko will never rest until he finds you after this."
Alan nodded and turned to Galen. "We've found out what we came for. You ready?"
Galen turned to look at his parents, then back at Alan, who sighed, realizing it wasn't over yet.
Ann spoke hurriedly. "You're already here. Aren't you hungry?" Burke looked up, alarmed. He wanted nothing more than to be out of this house and away from the city. Ann hesitated, then stepped closer to him, huffing impatiently as he continued to avoid her gaze. She tapped his arm gently with her fingers. He responded to her touch, looking stiffly at her, seeing her confusion over his actions and what it meant to her. And something else. the willingness to push that confusion aside. For her son's sake - and maybe even for his.
He smiled awkwardly down at her for an instant. It was enough. She tapped his arm again one last time and wrinkled her nose.
The trio looked at each other and came to agreement, nodding. They trooped behind Ann into the kitchen.
--------------------------------
Early the next morning the trio left Central City, tracing their path of a month before. They did their best to appear as unobtrusive as possible, and moved through the city without incident. Relief at safely reaching the outer limits of the city lightened their steps as they continued traveling, reaching the forested area where they'd previously camped an hour before dusk. The three made their way through trees and bushes to a familiar clearing and collapsed on the ground with grateful sighs.
Burke rummaged in his backpack and pulled out the bread and fruit that Ann had packed inside. He chewed, tasting little, and swigged from his canteen. Glancing sideways at Galen seated next to him in the fading light, he wiped his mouth with his arm. The chimpanzee seemed lost in thought, and Burke waved a hand in front of his face. Galen started and turned to Burke inquiringly. "Listen." Burke said, clearing his throat. "What you said back there at your parent's house. I, ah. appreciate it." He glanced away, picking a blade of grass from the ground. Suddenly the sounds of the forest were very loud to his ears.
Galen nodded, eyes thoughtful. He smiled slightly. "It was the truth."
"I think its time for us to talk about some things," Alan said quietly, sitting up from his reclining position on the ground.
Burke glanced at him uncomfortably. "Al.."
Alan held up his hand. "I mean it, Pete. It's past time we dealt with what happened. Things got way out of hand."
Burke heaved himself up. He paced restlessly around the small clearing before stopping, hands on his hips, staring at the ground. His two friends watched in silence as he looked up. "What's the point of this?" He squinted at the sun, sinking below the line of trees closest to him in the clearing.
Alan stood and faced Pete. "The point?" he repeated.
"Yeah. What good is it gonna do?" He switched his gaze to Alan.
"We can't afford to keep secrets from each other. It almost got you killed, Pete," said Galen, looking up.
"What secrets?" Burke asked impatiently.
"Come on, Pete. You haven't dealt with what happened at Chandar, or anything else. It's coming back to haunt you - and us," Alan said, eyes trained on friend's.
"So the purpose of this little heart-to-heart is so I'll confess my sins - is that it?" Pete's voice was even, but with an edge.
"By all rights, you should be dead now after what you did back there last month. You were out of control all the way," Alan said vehemently. He sighed, trying to retain his calm. "It's bad enough we have to fight off so many threats from the outside. It's almost impossible if we have to worry about what stunt you're gonna pull next."
"Look, I screwed up," Pete said, voice raised. "Don't act like you wouldn't have went after that flight disk if I hadn't, Alan."
Alan stared at Pete and said, slowly, "Yeah. Yeah, you're right. I would have tried to get it back." He paused, staring off into the trees, rubbing his chin. The fading light glowed orange. "You know, when I saw you pointing that gun at Urko, trying to keep from falling flat on your face. I was thinking, how much of this is my fault?" He looked at his two friends. "I won't lie, that flight disk still means a lot to me. but it's not worth your life. Our lives. I hope I never see anything like that again," he said, eyes on Burke.
"I got it back. That's the end of it." Burke said flatly.
Galen snorted. "Oh no you don't. We deserve more than that," he said, returning Pete's glare with a measured look. "Stop looking at me that way and listen! We're trying to help, whether you appreciate that or not."
"Maybe it bothers me that I left the disk behind in the first place, okay? Yeah, I got it back. Not quite as easy to make things right for Kabon and Liska, though. Not to mention the village." Burke uttered a strangled laugh. "It's been one royal fuck up after another, lately, courtesy of yours truly, hasn't it? I don't know, Galen, maybe I figure you're getting tired of having to pick up the pieces. Isn't that right, Alan? I know I'd be tired of it."
"NO!" Alan exclaimed. "But the fact that you think you are single- handedly responsible for all that's happened does bother me. Same as you thinking you can just single-handedly make things right does."
"We've got to deal with this together, Pete," said Galen.
Burke looked at them a moment, rubbing the back of his neck. He looked downward. "Then I get into that standoff with the gorilla..."
"You got into it trying to help me," Galen interjected quickly.
Burke looked towards the chimpanzee. "One step is all it takes, Galen. Did you know that? One step.one moment, one second, puts you over the line. I don't know how to deal with it - or with Chandar, okay?" he burst out, sounding frustrated and uncertain. "It's what I've been trying to do for weeks, and it hasn't worked." He raked his hand restlessly through his hair.
"Maybe it was just one step. the last one. It took a lot of pushing to get you to that point," said Galen. He tapped his fingers together, watching his friend. The gloom in the clearing deepened.
"I looked at that gorilla. I couldn't fight him, I knew he'd win. I remembered Liska, and Kabon, and all the other humans that have been beaten down, or killed, and I just. had enough. Was I supposed to roll over and quit? After everything?" said Burke hesitantly, searching Galen's eyes. Galen shook his head wordlessly.
Alan put a comforting hand on his friend's shoulder, seeing his misery and self-doubt. "It's easy to think you'd never take another life, Pete - easier to think in black and white, in absolutes... if you're lucky, you're never faced with a situation to challenge that conviction."
"You know as well as I that absolutes are tricky. It seems to be something I keep learning over and over," said Galen, smiling a little.
"Stop defending me! I was glad when I pulled that trigger - you need to understand that, if nothing else," Pete said, suddenly angry. He waved his hand at them dismissively and turned away.
"I understand. I understand you very well. Enough of this, Pete!" Galen said loudly, advancing on Burke. "If it's vengeance you still need, why are you looking for forgiveness?" He grabbed Pete's arm and gave it a shake for emphasis.
Startled, Pete raised his brow and looked at the chimpanzee. "Who said I'm looking for forgiveness?" he yelled.
"Oh, please," was Galen's reply.
"We've made our peace with what's happened. You'll have to look to yourself for absolution," said Virdon. Burke stared at him wordlessly. "And you better find it soon. We're getting tired of this crap," added Virdon. His blue eyes crinkled at the corners.
"Yeah, well.. that's asking a lot," said Burke, anger gone. He eyed the two of his friends and rubbed his forehead wearily.
Alan sobered, struck by the vulnerability on his face. "Try. Okay?"
"I'm not the same, anymore," Burke said simply.
"Then be what you are," Galen replied, gazing at him.
Burke looked back a moment. "I thought that was the problem."
"I dare say that won't change anytime soon," Galen said dryly, patting Pete's arm. He rolled his eyes at Virdon.
"Can you just let go of my arm now?" asked Burke pointedly. He sat down with a thump.
Alan looked back and forth at the two of them for a moment. Absently he felt for the disk in his pocket - a habit he'd acquired since getting it back. A startled look crossed his face.
"Alan." said Burke, warning.
Virdon looked at him, stricken. "It's gone."
"What do you mean, gone!" Galen exclaimed, agitated.
Burke looked up at Alan, anxiety belying his even tone. "Oh no, uh-uh. This better be a joke." He and Galen stared at the blond astronaut. He returned their gaze with a blank look.
"If it is, I really don't see the humor," added Galen sternly. There was a long silence. "It's a very bad joke."
Alan grinned and pulled the disk out of his pocket. "Busted."
Burke frowned at Alan, then sighed. "The king of comedy you ain't." He scratched his finger idly in the dirt.
Galen glared. "I don't think it's funny at all."
"I'm sorry," said Alan, trying to look repentant, and failing miserably. He sat down beside Burke. He smacked the back of Alan's head lightly, and a smothered laugh escaped the blond astronaut. Burke shook his head at Virdon and chuckled at Galen's outraged expression.
Galen put his hands on his hips, staring at the two. His nose twitched. "Hmmph," he said, and turned away as the two began to laugh out loud.
